Tickets for seats in Horse Guards are allocated by ballot in March. You need to apply in writing during January or February only, and then pay a £30 fee if successful. See householddivision.org.uk for more details

Disclaimer: London Drum has no association with Horse Guards. Whilst we make every effort to ensure the event information is accurate, events in London are sometimes cancelled or amended without us being notified. You should always reconfirm the event with Horse Guards before making plans

>Read Craig’s review I’ve seen this ceremony myself. Check out my London blog for a full review, with photos and a video. Feel free to ask me a question about this event

'Trooping the Colour' is one of the great set-pieces of the British calendar. Pomp and pageantry abound when Trooping the Colour sets off down The Mall to mark the second of the Queen's two birthdays. (Her real birthday is on the 21st April, but tradition dictates that we celebrate it later in the year when fine summer weather is more likely.)

The day begins at 10 AM when a long parade of foot soldiers, mounted soldiers and marching bands progress from Buckingham Palace down The Mall to Horse Guards. The Queen and other leading members of the Royal Family will follow in open-top carriages. Some of the Royals might be on horseback, in full military uniform (usually Prince William, Princess Anne and Harry).

The Queen will then watch as the Colours are "trooped" past her by the Household Division, comprising the Foot Guards and Household Cavalry.

After the inspection and Royal Salute, the parade will then return up the Mall and the Royal Family will return to Buckingham Palace. The Queen will likely exit her carriage in front of the main gates, to give another inspection before disappearing inside.

The Royal Family will then appear on the balcony and watch an RAF flypast at approximately 1 PM.

Craig has been to see Trooping the Colour several times, and you might like read his review before you go, to get an idea of the crowd-size, and where best to stand.

Note: You can watch the soldiers marching down The Mall and up to Horse Guards for free, but you will need a ticket to sit inside Horse Guards itself. Due to the huge demand you will have to enter a ballot to win one. Applications need to be made in January or February only, and the ballot will be drawn in March (maximum of three tickets per person). You will then have to pay a £30 fee if successful. See householddivision.org.uk for more details about how to apply.